Cairns is the adventure capital of Australia and the gateway to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites — the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Here’s how to make the most of your time here.
Must-Do Activities in Cairns
1. Great Barrier Reef Snorkel or Dive Trip
Non-negotiable. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the natural wonders of the world, and Cairns is the best base to explore it. Budget from 89 for a day trip to the outer reef. Introductory dives available for non-certified divers.
2. Daintree Rainforest Day Trip
The Daintree is the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth. Most backpackers do a day trip from Cairns — around 00-150 including transport. Highlights include Cape Tribulation, the Mossman Gorge and spotting cassowaries.
Cairns CBD is compact and walkable. Most backpacker essentials — supermarkets, tour desks, transport — are within 10 minutes walk of the Esplanade.
3. Skydive Over the Coral Sea
Cairns is one of the best places in the world to skydive, with views of the reef and rainforest below. Tandem jumps start from around 99 for 15,000 feet.
4. Whitewater Rafting on the Tully River
A full-day rafting experience on one of Australia’s best whitewater rivers. Grade 4 rapids. Around 75 including transport from Cairns.
The Cairns Esplanade lagoon is free to swim in and is the best place to meet other backpackers. It's open daily from early morning and is a great social spot.
5. The Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
Free, open to the public, and a great way to cool down. The lagoon is right on the waterfront and very social — great for meeting other backpackers.
6. Cairns Night Markets
Open every evening on the Esplanade. Great for cheap meals, souvenirs and people watching. The food court has dishes from -15.
Budget AUD $60-80/day for accommodation, food and activities in Cairns. Cook your own meals and use the free lagoon to keep costs down.
Free Things to Do in Cairns
- Swim at the Esplanade Lagoon
- Walk the Esplanade boardwalk
- Visit the Cairns Botanic Gardens
- Explore the Night Markets (free entry)
- Watch the flying foxes at dusk from the Esplanade
🎯 Top Activities in Cairns
★★★★★ Instant booking — free cancellation on most tours
Bucket List
Tandem Skydive over Cairns
14,000ft freefall over the reef and rainforest — most iconic jump in Australia
Cairns in the wet season (Nov–Apr) is still great for backpackers. Prices are lower, crowds are smaller, and most activities still run. Pack a light rain jacket.
Adrenaline
Tully River White Water Rafting
Full day class III-IV rapids through stunning rainforest gorge
UNESCO Heritage
Daintree & Cape Tribulation Day Tour
World’s oldest rainforest — crocs, cassowaries and pristine beaches
Scenic
Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail
Historic train through rainforest up + gondola cable car back down
📊 Key Facts at a Glance
❓ FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best free things to do in Cairns?
The Esplanade Lagoon (free Olympic-size saltwater pool), Cairns Night Markets (Wednesday, Friday, Saturday — free entry, food from $10), the Esplanade boardwalk at sunset, and Muddy’s Playground for families. The city beach area is walkable and free.
What is Cairns most famous for?
Cairns is most famous for being the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef — the world’s largest coral system. It’s also the base for Daintree Rainforest tours, skydiving, white water rafting on the Tully River and Kuranda Scenic Railway.
Is Cairns worth visiting for non-divers?
Absolutely. Non-divers can snorkel the reef with flotation vests, take glass-bottom boat tours, visit Fitzroy or Green Island, do the Kuranda Scenic Railway, tour the Daintree Rainforest, skydive, go canyoning or simply enjoy the Esplanade and night markets.
How many days do you need in Cairns?
Most backpackers spend 3–5 days in Cairns for a reef day trip, one day trip (Daintree or Kuranda), and exploring the city. If you’re doing farm work or staying for the job market, 4–12 weeks is common. Cairns is easy to get comfortable in.
What’s the best time of year to visit Cairns?
June–September is peak season — dry weather, calm reef conditions and 22–28°C. May and October are great shoulder months with fewer crowds. November–April is wet season with tropical storms but lower prices, spectacular waterfalls and still-excellent reef conditions.
